Mystère by Cirque du Soleil

Liliane Opsomer

Mystère was the first permanent Cirque du Soleil production in Las Vegas and the one that set the standard for all that followed. It’s a far cry from a traditional circus but retains all of the fun and excitement. It is whimsical, mystical, and sophisticated, yet pleasing to all ages. The show is held at the Mystère Theater inside Treasure Island Resort & Casino.

The action takes place on an elaborate stage that incorporates almost every part of the theater. The original musical score is exotic, like the show. To categorize it as a circus does not begin to cover its depth, though its performers could entertain with distinction in any circus on Earth. Cirque du Soleil is much more than a circus. It combines elements of classic Greek theater, mime, the English morality play, Dali surrealism, Fellini characterization, and Chaplin comedy.

Mystère is at once an odyssey, a symphony, and an exploration of human emotions. If this sounds overly intellectual, not to worry, Mystère is also the most fun show in the Cirque du Soleil lineup. The show pivots on its humor, which is sometimes black, and engages the audience with its unforgettable characters. Though light and uplifting, it is also poignant and dark. Simple in its presentation, it is extraordinarily intricate, always operating on multiple levels of meaning. As you laugh and watch the amazingly talented cast, you become aware that your mind has entered a dimension seldom encountered in a waking state. The presentation begins to register in your consciousness more as a seamless dream than as a stage production. You are moved, lulled, and soothed, as well as excited and entertained.

The sensitive, the imaginative, the literate, and those who love good theater and art will find no show in Las Vegas that compares with Mystère—other than Cirque’s sister productions.

Be forewarned that the audience is an integral part of Mystère and that at almost any time you might be plucked from your seat to participate. Our advice is to loosen up and roll with it. If you are too rigid, repressed, hung over, or whatever to get involved, politely but firmly decline to be conscripted.

Because Mystère is presented in its own customized showroom, there are no tables and, consequently, no drink service. In keeping with the show’s circus theme, however, spectators may purchase refreshments at nearby concession stands. Tickets for reserved seats can be purchased seven days in advance at the Cirque’s box office or over the phone, using your credit card.

In 2016, Cirque du Soleil invited the public to free open rehearsals of the show each Saturday (3-3:45 p.m.) and Sunday (5-5:30 p.m.). If it’s still offered when you visit, be sure to go. You’ll also have the chance to purchase a pair of tickets for an actual performance at the discounted rate of $99 upon presenting a voucher from the open rehearsal at the box office. All ages are welcome to attend; for more information, call the box office at 702-894-7722.

Admission ranges $70–$125, with lowest attendance on Tuesdays. Showtimes are Saturday through Wednesday, at 7 and 9:30 p.m. The 90-minute show is dark on Thursday and Friday. For bookings call 702-894-7722 or 800-392-1999. For more information, visit Treasure Island Resort & Casino.

For a complete review of all Cirque de Soleil shows in Las Vegas, check out The Unofficial Guide to Las Vegas by Bob Sehlinger. If you enjoyed this post, sign up for our newsletter here.